Jen's Musings

Friday, February 04, 2005

Weekend!!!

The weekend is approaching, which means one thing.. super bowl? Not what I had in mind, although I will be watching and rooting for the Patriots for two reasons:

1) Charlie Weis, ND's new head coach.
2) They're not the Eagles. I was talking to a group of friends last night, and we all agreed that one person (Sic) is the reason why we all hate the Eagles. Those of you out there who know Sic, I'm sure you agree with me.

Unfortunately, I believe it'll be too warm to go snowboarding this weekend. Darn. I really wanted to try out my new North Face cammo snow pants! At least the break will allow my ribs and ankle to get better.

In other news, you can check out Tiffany's blog by clicking here.

Thursday, February 03, 2005

Summertime...

Today is such a beautiful day! It's currently a balmy 43 degrees here in the Windy City, and it feels like summer! I just got off the phone with a friend of mine who had to go get ice cream because it was so nice out. Me, I'm hunting for my wetsuit and drawing up plans on how to turn my wakeboard boat into party central (if anyone has a better idea for weighting down an '84 ski nautique 2001 than a fat seat and a few sandbags in the bow, let me know). It's funny how just a small boost in the temperature makes everyone happer and hopeful that summer is just around the corner. So what are you still doing reading this? Turn your computer off and go outside!

Wednesday, February 02, 2005

In Vino Veritas part trois

Ok, I know some of you are on the edges of your chairs waiting for the thrilling conclusion to "in vino veritas"... so here you go! Today's subject: red and white wine's bastard stepchildren.

Port - This sinful dessert wine is made by fortifying red wine with brandy, then aged for many, many years. Try it with some good dark chocolate (I believe Vosges makes truffles infused with port if you're lazy). If you're a port lover, you most likely own a smoking jacket and perhaps a Bentley because this stuff ain't cheap.

Eiswein - Another sinful dessert wine made by leaving grapes (usually Riesling) on the vine until the frost comes, then carefully picking and squeezing the grapes, essentially removing most of the water out of the grape pressing. This is the nectar of the gods, baby! Again, mad props to any guy who would order a bottle (actually, a half bottle) of this stuff because I respect a guy who's secure enough to order something so decadent.

Champagne/Sparkling wine - We all know this is bubbly liquid is used to celebrate. However, if you encounter someone who only drinks champagne.. back away slowly. They're really weird people.

White Zinfandel - Where do I begin? Well first of all, white zinfandel is made from zinfandel grapes, but the skins are removed from the grapes before much color can be lended to the wine. Sutter Home first made white zinfandel in 1972 because they found a way to use their not so good grapes and turn it into a sweet, profitable "beginner wine". Yes, I said beginner wine because this stuff is mass produced and is made from less-than-quality fruit. Personally, I feel bad for white zin drinkers. Perhaps they're too scared to venture out into the world of wine by themselves and feel white zin is a safe bet. If you encounter one of these people, please try and hold their hand and ease them into something else, like a Riesling.

In conclusion, remember that good wine comes in all shapes and sizes, whether it be corked, screw topped, or even boxed (try Delicato's Shiraz boda box if you don't believe me) or canned (try some Sofia blanc de blanc bubbly). So the next time you go to your local wine shop, try something different, and don't be afraid to ask questions. You can learn a lot from a wine shop clerk. Happy drinking!


Tuesday, February 01, 2005

In Vino Veritas part deux

Now it's time for the whites...

Chardonnay - yawn. very overdone. If this is your weapon of choice, you probably do something boring, like accounting.. Come on! Live a little! Me, I'm a card-carrying member of the ABC Club (Anything But Chardonnay).

Sauvignon Blanc - Herbal and kinda grassy. You're very laid back and easy going.

Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio - Absolutely amazing with a lot of french cuisine, AND it's a pinot.. so if you've got a glass in your hand, you're most likely a pretentious little (fill in the blank).

Riesling - This puppy goes well with a lot of ethnic cuisine, which is no small feat. If you favor Reisling, you're adventurous and like to try new things. And no it's not too sweet.

Gewurtztraminer - oh my... It's like drinking rose petals. Mad props to anyone who can pronounce it correctly.

Can you tell I favor alsacian wine? I hope I wasn't too obvious :)
Tune in tomorrow for the dramatic conclusion...


Monday, January 31, 2005

In Vino Veritas

How much does what's in your glass say about you? Well, let's start with the reds..

Cabernet Sauvignon - Even though it's big and bold, I tend to see cab savs as a safety blanket for meat eaters.

Merlot - I think, "I’m not drinking any f*#&ing Merlot! Anyone orders Merlot and I’m outta here!” pretty much sums that one up.

Zinfandel - Wow. Wine that actually goes with pizza. However, if you actually DO order a zinfandel w/ a slice of pepperoni, you have issues. Put the glass down immediately and have a beer like a normal person.

Shiraz/Syrah - I'd like to thank the auzzies for making this one a little more mainstream. A lot of people drink Shiraz because they think it's the more exotic choice and they want to be "different". Their deep dark secret? 75% of the stuff in their closet came from either Banana Republic or J. Crew.

Pinot noir - There are few things that taste as good as nice Oregon pinot with some wild Alaskan salmon. Pinots are brilliantly complicated, and its drinkers want you to see them in the same light. However, more often than not, they're just pretentious people who say mean things about merlot.

Well that pretty much sums up my big 5. If I missed a fav of yours, please drop me a line. Tune in tomorrow for the whites and wednesday for analysis of their bastard stepchildren.